Program Structure

Perlman Camp is proud to offer a variety of flexible session options. The summer is divided into a 4-week First Session and a 3-week Second Session, with the majority of campers enrolling for the 7-week Full Season. Our popular 2-week Rookie Sessions (offered at the beginning of 1st and 2nd session) are open to first time Perlman campers who will be entering 3rd through 6th grades in the fall.

The basic camp unit is the Bunk, which consists of 10-14 campers of the same grade and 2-4 staff members housed in a single cabin. Bunks are grouped into Divisions, each led by a Division Leader with the assistance of two Head Counselors. Campers participate in a variety of Division activities, including athletics, evening activities and overnights.

Divisions are made up of the following Girls and Boys Units:

• 3rd-5th Grades Freshmores
• 6th-8th Grades Juniors
• 9th-10th Grades Seniors
• 11th Grade Pioneers
• 12th Grade Staff-In-Training
  

Most field trips, Shabbat programs, waterfront activities and canteen visits are done by Division.

Our two-year leadership track program - Pioneers (11th grade) and Staff-In-Training (12th grade) - for rising high school juniors and seniors incorporate the best of camping and leadership training with new and innovative ideas, themes and projects. Leadership Programs are based on the ideals that create the foundation of Jewish life - Torah (Jewish learning), Avodah (sacred work) and Gemilut Chasidim (acts of loving kindness). Special applications and personal interviews are required.

Pioneers are campers entering 11th grade.  Participants in the traditional PIO program live in platform tents in a separate area of camp known as Pioneer Village. This is a 7 week adventure: 4 weeks in the woods, and a 3 week trip to Israel! During the four weeks at camp, the Pioneers cook their own meals and organize their own community under the close supervision of highly qualified staff who ensure that the program meets the maximum standards of program excellence and personal and community safety. An intense leadership training curriculum combines seminars and workshops with hands-on experience in the leadership process.

SIT Program Entering 12th graders will participate in this second year of our two year Teen Leadership  Program. The second year of the program is designed to help these campers learn all about the workings of camp. They will gain leadership skills and learn tools to help them become a future staff member at Perlman. The program includes certification programs in first aid and CPR and will include training in many areas around camp including; outdoor pursuits, camping, belaying, lifeguard training and various sports. The second half of the summer they will be placed in bunks so that they can intern with our current staff members. The program includes sessions lead by camping professionals and guest speakers. Entry into the program is by application and interview process. Past camp experience will be taken into consideration.